The Karnataka government is seriously considering handing the investigation into the fatal Ballari clashes over to the CID, Home Minister G Parameshwara confirmed on Sunday. The violence, which broke out on New Year’s Day, stemmed from a heated dispute over a banner placed near the residence of BJP MLA G Janardhana Reddy.
A major focus of the probe is the reported gunfire during the riot. Parameshwara told reporters that the weapons used by private security personnel have been seized and are currently being analysed. "The ballistic expert's report will clarify exactly which gun was fired," he said, adding that the ADGP has already confirmed the shots did not come from a police weapon. While the government hasn't officially launched a Special Investigation Team (SIT), the Home Minister noted that a CID probe is a very likely next step following a planned discussion with CM Siddaramaiah.
The political temperature in the region remains high, especially with the Bharatiya Janata Party announcing a protest march to Ballari. Parameshwara dismissed the move, stating that while anyone can march, the police's priority is taking actual legal action. He also pointedly remarked that the situation in Ballari was relatively calm until Janardhana Reddy arrived in the city, a timeline that investigators are now looking into.
As per the investigation, the role of private "gunmen" has come under scrutiny. Two individuals, identified as Baljit Singh and Gurucharan Singh, have been detained in connection with the shooting. The Home Minister warned that if the use of private firearms or even hand grenades is established, the state will take the strictest possible action against those responsible, regardless of their political affiliations.
Also read: SIT to submit Dharmasthala probe report by Oct end: Parameshwara
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